On the use of literary sources by receiptive tour operators and excursions in the compilation of tours and excursions

Abstract

This article examines the potential of fiction, memoirs, and popular science literature as valuable resources for enhancing tourist itineraries in the Zhetysu and Almaty regions. It highlights that while route development typically relies on scientific, historical, and ethnographic sources, literary works – rich in depictions of local life, customs, culture, and historical events – are often neglected. The objective of the study is to justify the integration of literary sources into the practices of inbound tour operators and tour guides in order to create unique and content-rich tourism products. The authors base their analysis on literary and reference materials, memoirs, expert interviews with tourism professionals, and their own long-standing experience in organizing tours and excursions. As a result, a wide range of literary texts with high potential for application in tourism and guiding practices has been identified. The article offers practical recommendations for incorporating literary descriptions, quotations, and imagery into excursion narratives and tour programs. The conclusions emphasize the importance of fostering a research-oriented mindset among tourism professionals and promoting a systematic approach to utilizing literary heritage in domestic and inbound tourism development.